J.C. Deacon named Florida men's golf coach

J.C. Deacon (left), with former UNLV player Derek Ernst, was named head men's coach at Florida after spending four season with the Rebels.
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Photo Courtesy of Florida Athletics
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By Golfweek Staff

Sunday, June 15, 2014

J.C. Deacon, a former Canadian Tour pro who most recently served as UNLV's assistant men's golf coach, was tabbed as Florida's 15th head men's coach Saturday.

"I want to start that vision I have for this program,” said Deacon, who replaces Buddy Alexander, who retired after 27 seasons and two national titles with the Gators.

“I am looking forward to becoming part of something I truly believe in. I’ve been a big fan of the Florida program for a long time. Buddy (Alexander) has produced nationally competitive teams throughout the years.

"I just know there are a serious amount of championships to be won at Florida. I have that platform now, and it is up to me to go out and do the hard work to get it done.”

Deacon, who played at UNLV from 2001 to '05, spent four seasons as the Rebels' assistant after joining the UNLV staff in 2011. During his tenure, the Rebels made match play at the 2013 NCAA Championship.

As a player, Deacon helped UNLV to the 2002 Mountain West Championship, as well as berths in the NCAA Championships in 2002 and '03. In 2005, he advanced to the semifinals of the U.S. Amateur. After turning pro, Deacon played on the Canadian and Gateway tours, notching 35 starts and making 17 cuts.

“When I finally had the chance to sit down with J.C. Deacon, everything I had been hearing over and over about him was apparent," said Jeremy Foley, Florida's athletic director. "There is much to offer with our storied golf program, and J.C. will bring that message to the golf community. He has what it takes to be a successful recruiter as he has built relationships with so many in the golf world.

“It is readily evident that he wants – and has a plan – to make the players successful in the classroom, on the course and in life. He will do things the right way because with his character and tremendous integrity, he knows no other way. J.C. will fit right in among our coaching staff, and we welcome him to the Gator program.”

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Tracy Wilcox
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